Sponsors (5)
The bill simplifies statutory tariff language to reduce classification disputes and make treatment clearer for importers and Customs, but it creates short-term uncertainty for filers and may remove a basis domestic manufacturers used to challenge imports.
Small-business garment importers and customs filers get clearer, more predictable tariff classification for certain water-resistant garments because the bill removes ambiguous language that caused inconsistent classifications.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff and other federal customs employees will likely face fewer disputes and appeals over garment classification because the statutory language is simplified.
Domestic garment manufacturers and trade challengers may lose a legal basis they previously used to contest imports, making it harder to challenge competing imports and potentially shifting competitive dynamics in favor of importers.
Small-business importers and customs filers may face short-term uncertainty about correct tariff classifications and duties until Customs issues new guidance or rulings, causing potential delays and unexpected costs.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Deletes a sentence in the HTSUS chapter 62 note that defined when garments qualify as water-resistant, changing how some clothing imports are classified and handled by Customs.
Removes a sentence from the Harmonized Tariff Schedule note that helped define when garments count as water-resistant. That change alters how certain clothing imports are classified under chapter 62 of the HTSUS and may change Customs treatment, duties, and import recordkeeping for those garments.
Introduced February 4, 2025 by Chellie Pingree · Last progress February 4, 2025